The intimacy of the Masque Theatre is the perfect space for Peña Flamenca, La Rosa’s exciting new pure Flamenco production that features new choreographies and a rotating cast of soloists, giving audiences a fresh take on the structure and spirit of the performance each night.

A peña is a regular social get-together of a group of flamenco locals within a community where each participant has the opportunity to practice their art in a relaxed, informal, spontaneous context. Membership of peñas in Spain is often limited to people with an interest in and knowledge of flamenco, known as flamencos and aficionados, and it is a sought-after experience for those looking for a taste of authentic flamenco.

Highlights of this season include the two new pieces– the opening piece and a Fandangos de Huelva that have been facilitated by La Rosa’s Artistic Director Carolyn Holden, calling on the dancers to create short solos for themselves within each piece. There is enormous space for creativity and growth for the dancers, who, whilst improvising and choreographing, are responsible for their own connections with the singer and musicians onstage.

Dancers include Lisa Ventura, Luvuyo Simandla, Maria Cortes, Ndumiso Tafeni, Thandolwethu Sam, Ché Adams, and Deidré Jantjies. The musical ensemble is headed by Bienyameen Camroodien on Flamenco guitar, with Robert Davids on cajón and percussion, Robert Jeffrey on guitar and cello, Heather Roth on flute and saxophone, and the vocals of Loreán Swartz supported by a vocal ensemble drawn from members of La Rosa’s Vocational Training Programme.

Peña Flamenca runs from 23 August to 1 September 2012 with shows Wednesday to Friday at 8pm, Saturday at 2:30pm and 6pm and on Sunday at 3pm.

Tickets cost from R55 to R65, with discounts for the Masque Theatre Club and booking via 021 788 1898 during office hours or email [email protected]